Sunflower Iron Double 05.02.2009

The Sunflower Iron is a 21.5 mile race in Twisp, WA. It's name says it all - there are billions of sunflowers blanketing the hills. Tim and I ran the double again. We started at 4:10 am at the race Finish and ran into the sunrise to the Start. We did a bit of trail navigation to find the course in the dark, but we didn't get lost this time. We made it to the start with minutes to spare and then race with the racers back to the Finish. We came in 7th from last place. It was fabulous. Lots of lollygagging and picture taking. Tons of fun and soaking in the beauty of hills.

The climb out of the valley around 4:30 am

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We made it to the official start with minutes to spare.

We refueled here for the official run.

We met some very nice ladies on the course and swaped picture taking.

Michael and his wife Tamara Cartwright

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The sunflowers were spectacular!

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Perfect trail running.

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Patterson Lake

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Aid station volunteers

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The hillsides were literally blanketed with sunflowers

We took our time and enjoyed the scenery.

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No better way to spend the day!

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snake

Last aid station with the best view (next photo)

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Floss daily?

The start of the final decent into the valley

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Sharon Carlson

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I think this is my favorite picture....

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What was left of the finish line by the time we finished.

The rest of the day was spent in Winthrop for dinner and shopping.

The ride home - view from the passenger seat. Love those Drymax socks!